UPDATE: Comments closed; time to pick a winner! Mary Ellen, a regular reader and commenter, was the winner of last month’s Love the House You’re In collage. That’s her house, above, as interpreted by Mel Bushner, our collage artist laureate. You must admit, Mel’s collages just keep getting better and better! Click on through to learn how Mel created this wonderful little study of mid century modest luv… and for instructions on how to win this month’s contest for a custom collage of your very own — it’s easy.
Here’s what Mel writes about this month’s collage:
After I had studied Mary Ellen’s house for a while, I knew what I wanted to do – embroidery! I used to do petit point about a million years ago, and I still have all my flosses and threads and needles. That flower box below the picture window seemed perfect for it! The roses on the right were done with silk ribbon as well. I used a tiny metal mesh for the screen door – another new addition. I love finding new “building materials” for these wonderful houses!
To win our November contest, all you have to do is: Leave a Comment answering the question, “What are you thankful for?” I know it’s cheesy, but it’s Thanksgiving around the corner. How could I not? Please read all the rules here before entering, they all apply. I’ll pick a reader the day after Thanksgiving. 
Meanwhile — thanks to Mel for another fabulous collage. You can find Mel’s collage works on flickr and her blog, Much Ado About Stuff.
Shanan says
My little boy. Predictable but true.
Josh Loves His House says
Thankful for my family, new wife and new baby girl named Harper!
We are thankful for our wonderful 60 atomic ranch and our 150 lbs mastiff Lucy (I Love Lucy)
And last but not least I am thankful for your website. My time capsule would be no where with out you!!!
Thanks!
twolittleducks says
My father passed away a year ago. I am truly thankful for the memories I have of him, of his upright character and his strength. I am grateful for the lessons he taught me and thankful every day as I strive to follow his example. I miss you, Dad!
Megan Church says
I am thankful for so many things in my life…the big things, my husband, our wonderful home and my great job.
The little things…my recent MCM furniture finds, most recently our 3 part Mobler wall unit, and a 3 part sectional corner couch with amazing wooden peg legs. Also, our pets are now three as well… We rescued a sweet little Boston Terrier boy from the pound this week!
Kristina says
I’m thankful to have awesome family and friends.
Urbanitra says
I am thankful that I am at peace with who & why I am, where & how I live and what I do.
AmyS says
I’m thankful that our 1950 house had it’s original steel cabinets and knotty pine second floor when we found it! And, for my wonderful, supportive family that pulls together in a crisis. 🙂
Gail Breeze says
I am thankful that I stumbled upon Retro Renovation before I purchased my first home in June. My 1955 Mid Century Modest home in Austin, Tx. has a perfect pink bathroom, original lemon yellow kitchen, stone planters, wooden screens and 2 huge pecan trees. I’m also thankful for my neighbors as they cheer me on to the final touches that make this little 960 square foot bungalow shine.
Jenny says
@ Shannon – I’m thankful for George Clooney, too! Ha ha!
I’m also thankful that I get to live such a blessed life. I’m thankful for my healthy children, the love of my life, the wonderful 1956 ranch we were able to purchase this year, the nice neighborhood we live in and the fantastic view from my desk. Even with all of the financial and political turmoil that’s occurring right now, I’m especially thankful to live in this great nation of ours. We are all truly blessed. No matter how bad we think we have it, we should always remember that there are many, many more less fortunate than we. There is much for which to be thankful.
Jacky Bartlett says
I am thankful that I am fortunate enough to say I LOVE MY LIFE!